You Get to Talk to the Animals
Vet techs are to veterinarians what nurses are to doctors. As a vet tech, you are required to constantly assist the veterinarian in his procedures as well as doing routine tasks that he may not have time to do himself. You will assist him in surgery, soothe the animals during checkups and shots, and inquire information from pet owners. At a smaller veterinary clinic you may also be in charge of keeping the boarding animals clean and well fed. Since there is less paperwork in your job, you will probably spend more time with animals than vets do.
The Veterinarians' Right Hand
All of your duties and responsibilities will be delegated by your vet. After all, it is their practice. However, the more you can learn on the job and the more tasks you can take upon yourself, the more satisfaction you will be in your job. You will become invaluable at your clinic, and this means you will earn more money.
On the Job Training
To become a vet tech, you need a strong high school background in science and math. After school, you should enroll in a two year associates degree or a four year bachelors degree program in veterinary technology. After the course is complete, you will need to get your state license and apply for a vet tech job. Once you have your job, most of your training will be done on-site. A willingness to learn and an open mind are two important qualifications needed for a vet tech and this cannot be taught to you in school.
Animals can Sense Good People
Some people are naturally good with animals, while others make dogs and cats uncomfortable, so as to make them scamper away. This is not a skill that can be taught; it comes from having a calm and trustworthy demeanor. Only true animal lovers should consider a career as a vet tech. Calmness, patience, and kindness are the key ingredients of a vet's personality.
Unlimited Opportunities
Vet tech jobs are entry level, but have unlimited opportunities for growth. This profession is highly rated as one due to expand in the future, especially as more and more people own pets. Within the vet tech profession itself, you can always keep learning, thereby improving your individual skill set, and with more skills comes more responsibilities and hike in pay.
Hours and Good Pay
Vet techs work full time, but are usually hourly workers. This keeps their work load fairly steady, because overtime must be paid. At the same time, you can expect to earn around $30,000 a year if you have the requisite qualifications and experience under your belt.
Becoming a veterinary technician is a gateway to excellent opportunities to work with the animals you love without spending eight or more years in school to become a full-fledged veterinarian.
